Mirror Lake at Tamarack Resort

Family-Oriented Resort near Wisconsin Dells

The surface of Mirror Lake in Wisconsin is so placid and clear that you could easily see the ripples caused by a pebble as it falls below the water. That's due in part to sandstone bluffs that surround the lake, which shield the water from the wind. There's also a strict no-wake zone, allowing canoers and kayakers to paddle about in peace. Tamarack Resort overlooks Mirror Lake and maintains a bit of the lake's serene feel, and it's also just a 10-minute drive from Wisconsin Dells' rollicking theme parks, indoor water parks, and river tours.

Full kitchens, crackling fireplaces, and natural wood furnishings add a sense of homeyness to the guest rooms. In each room, there's a jetted tub where you can unwind after a day at the Dells or stow the family alligator.

You don't need to head to the Dells to stay occupied, though; there are onsite swimming pools, both indoor and outdoor, as well as basketball and tennis courts. Tamarack's staff curates seasonal activities that range from sugar-cookie decorating to wine-and-cheese socials. In warmer months, guests can barbecue on the outdoor grill or go horseback riding or mountain biking along the shores of Mirror Lake.

Wisconsin Dells: Land of Lakes and Indoor Water Parks

Wisconsin Dells encompasses Lake Delton and the Wisconsin River in the central part of the state, just northwest of Madison. It's the self-proclaimed Water Park Capital of the World, known for its family-oriented attractions. That includes Mount Olympus Water and Theme Park, an indoor-outdoor water park with go-karts, indoor roller coasters, and more than 30 water slides. Wisconsin Dells also draws big crowds with its stunt shows, haunted houses, and boat tours.

The downtown Dells area along the river is dotted with antique stores, candy shops, and a Bavarian-themed village. At a handful of German restaurants, you can enjoy schnitzel with swigs of lager as musicians perform glockenspiel covers of Kraftwerk. Just down the road in the town of Baraboo, Victorian buildings and quaint shops lie on the outskirts of Devil's Lake State Park, whose 500-foot bluffs make it a destination for rock climbing.